Mike Clevinger chooses 'Gold Digger' as walk-up song during game amid domestic violence allegations
CHICAGO, ILLIONS: Chicago White Sox pitcher Mike Clevinger's walk-up song has been gaining attention amid the domestic abuse allegations against him. Clevinger made his home debut for the Sox on Friday, April 14, and walked out of the bullpen to Kanye West's 'Gold Digger'.
Some have speculated that it was a dig at the alleged mother of one of his children, Olivia Finestead. Later on, when Clevinger was questioned about the choice of song, he replied, "Are you a music producer? No? OK. Well, if you have a baseball question, I'm here for you," Clevinger said, per the Tribune.
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Finestead claimed to be the mother of one of Clevinger's children and he assaulted her while she was pregnant. Clevinger was not suspended by the MLB as there was insufficient evidence to support a suspension.
What did the MLB find?
The league released a statement announcing the closure of the investigation after "interviews of more than 15 individuals, in addition to Mr. Clevinger and the complainant, as well as a review of available documents." Their statement read, "The Office of the Commissioner of Baseball has completed its investigation into allegations against Chicago White Sox pitcher Mike Clevinger. The comprehensive investigation included interviews of more than 15 individuals, in addition to Mr. Clevinger and the complainant, as well as a review of available documents, such as thousands of electronic communication records. The Office of the Commissioner has closed this investigation and, barring the receipt of any new information or evidence, the Office of the Commissioner will not be imposing discipline on Mr. Clevinger in connection with these allegations," as reported by Fansided.
'I had nothing to hide'
Clevinger too released a statement soon after. He said, "I am pleased that Major League Baseball has concluded its investigation. I had nothing to hide and cooperated fully with MLB. This situation has been stressful for my family, and I thank them for their strength and support. I asked everyone not to rush to judgment until MLB's investigation was concluded, and I appreciate everyone who had faith in me, including the White Sox organization and my teammates. I am looking forward to the 2023 season and helping the White Sox win a championship this year," as per reports.
